Exchange of sharp words has taken centre stage among personalities in oil producing area of Imo State over the conferment of Duke of Niger Delta on Mr. Eric Nwanom, SA to Governor Rochas Okorocha on Niger Delta Affairs.
At the centre of the raging war of words are self styled commander of the Oil rich Kingodn of Ohaji/Egbema, Chief (Dr) Placid Ekwueme and Ohaji/Egbema/Oguta stakeholders.
Chief Ekwueme, wondered how the title will be given to Nwanom in a hotel room, without the approval and permission of the nine states that make up Niger Delta. He described Nwanom as a fake Duke, warning that anyone who addresses Mr. Eric as Duke will be arrested alongside Mr Nwanom.
In fierce reaction to Ekwueme’s comments Ohaji/Egbema and Oguta stakeholders rose in defense of Nwanom describing those casting aspersions on Nwanom as disgruntled elements and mischief makers who do want to associate with Nwanom on his conferment as Duke of Niger Delta.
They contend that Hon. Nwanom be honoured and appreciated for his outstanding excellent performance in the Rescue Mission Government of Governor Okorocha.
Part of the statement reads “Recall that since his assumption of office as Special Assistant to the Governor on Niger Delta Affairs in two years of his Administration, the oil producing LGAs have witnessed unprecedented peace coupled with his ability to empower the youths through employment opportunities in oil companies, coordinating the presidential Amnesty programme, re-opening of shut down oil wells and resolutions of crises in the oil-rich communities”
The statement endorsed by Elder Hon Osinachi Adimigbo for Oguta LGA, Chief Charles Onu (Ohaji/Egbema), took a swipe at Dr Ekwueme, arguing that he is not a traditional ruler and so do not have the powers or authority to confer any titles. They emphasized that the conferment of such titles are the prerogative of the traditional rulers and stakeholders that cut across oil producing LGAs and states.
“We therefore disassociate ourselves from the frivolities and antics characterized with his life (Dr. Placid Ekwueme) whose title as Grand Commander was not conferred on him by any stakeholder but was arrogated to himself”.
